Gunnison approves $3-an-hour raise for public works employee to be budgeted in July

Gunnison City Council on March 19 agreed to include a $3-per-hour wage increase for a certified public works employee in the upcoming budget cycle, citing retention risks and a market comparison showing the worker is paid below peers despite multiple certifications.

JD, the public works representative, presented a market analysis showing certified employees command higher wages in neighboring jurisdictions and said the city risks losing a multi-skilled, certified employee if pay is not adjusted. "I would look for $3 an hour," JD said when describing the recommended increase to bring the worker closer to market and to recognize certifications.

Council discussed the city's personnel policy that normally allows wage increases during the annual July budget process; members agreed the raise should be budgeted and take effect in July rather than changing the budget mid-year. Council also discussed certification pay for other employees and asked staff to evaluate certification-based pay adjustments broadly during the next budget cycle.

A motion to include the $3-per-hour increase for "Wyatt" in the July budget passed by voice vote. Council members said they wanted to ensure that staff provide a comparative compensation analysis and consider fairness for long-serving employees who lack certifications.

The city will prepare budget language and cost estimates for the council's upcoming budget deliberations.